The winds are wailing and the snow is falling but it would be a huge mistake to retreat to your room for hibernation. Jeju has just as much to offer in winter as in summer, assuming you don’t mind a bit of cold.

As the wind penetrates your parka and scythes into your skin, warm yourself up with sledding, skiing, walking and hiking. Not only are there fewer people meaning you get closer to nature, but the scenery is unbeatable.

Here are the best options for the wintry months from December to February.

Mt. Hallasan Winter Event and shuttle bus

The highlight of the festivities is the Mt. Halla Winter Festival at Eorimok Square. The breathtaking views are enough to bring people here all year round but Jeju Tourism Organization will also be putting on winter sports and Korean culture experience programs. There will be special events on every weekend up until Jan. 30 and a free shuttle bus will be provided to ensure no one misses out.

Mt. Hallasan id not normally open at night but authorities will open to hikers at midnight on Jan 1 from the Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa trails so hikers can see the first sunrise of the year from the summit.

Hallasan National Park officials warn all hikers to dress appropriately, wear crampons and be prepared for tough conditions. There will also be winter events hosted by Jeju Tourism Organization.

Call 064-725-9950/064-756 9950

Camellias at Dongbaekdongsan

▲ Photo courtesy mdxdt

Camellias bloom when few other plants do -- in late fall, winter, or early spring. On Jeju, the Ramsar site of Dongbaekdongsan in the Seonheul Gotjawal is one of the best locations to see them. The village of Seonheul 1-ri is also the first Ramsar Village and promotes a number of ecotourism activities.

This special winter program allows hikers to explore Jeju Olle alongside managers of the trails to learn about the network, the history of Jeju, and Jeju’s environment. This year is not limited to the Olle but also includes oreum (volcanic cones), forests, and Mt. Hallasan. Registration is open to all and families are welcome.

Gamgyul “experiences” are all over the island, but the best - as per the tangerines - are down south. The Citrus Museum offers great picking and a number of other activities including a themed exhibition room, a 3D video, a folklore exhibit and a subtropical garden.

441, Hyodonsunhwan-ro,
Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
9am - 6pm (7pm July - Sept)
064-767-3010
citrusmuseum.com
6,000 won per person per kilogram
No limitation on tasting and includes museum entrance No reservation necessary

21st Seongsan Ilchul Festival

▲ Photo courtesy Seogwipo City

The iconic place to see in the first sunrise of the new year is Seongsan Ilchulbong. From Dec. 30 to Jan. 1, the Seongsan Ilchul Festival will include fireworks, performances, festival foods and drinks to warm your cockles. On Jan. 1, crowds will ascend the castle-like peak to see in the first sunrise of the year.

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